Olympiacos star announces departure: club intends to keep him by force
Thomas Walkup has unilaterally notified Olympiacos of his contract termination amid interest from Dubai. The club rejects the move and demands the player report for pre-season testing, threatening legal action.
A major drama is unfolding at Olympiacos: Thomas Walkup has unilaterally notified the club of his contract termination and requested an immediate release. However, the Greek club does not recognize this move, asserting that the point guard's contract is valid until the summer of 2027. Olympiacos has made it clear that they will pursue all available legal measures if the player fails to report for pre-season training.
Walkup, 33, notified the club in writing today of his decision to end the partnership. The club, however, has outright rejected the request.
"Olympiacos announces that player Thomas Walkup notified us in writing today of the unilateral termination of his contract, without cause, and requested his immediate release," the club stated.
The club is demanding that Walkup report to Greece this Thursday for medical and fitness tests ahead of the new season.
"We expect to see him on Thursday in Greece for the scheduled medical and ergometric tests. Otherwise, Olympiacos reserves the right to use any legal means to protect its rights."
Interest from Dubai
The current confrontation comes against the backdrop of ongoing speculation regarding Walkup's future and interest from Dubai. Reports suggest that Dubai was prepared to offer the point guard a lucrative contract, potentially worth $6 million over two years or up to $9 million for a three-year deal.
Since Walkup's contract with Olympiacos contains no buyout clause, any transfer requires the club's consent. Dubai's offer of approximately $600,000 for his release was rejected. According to reports, Olympiacos demanded around $3 million to seriously consider his departure.
Walkup joined Olympiacos in 2021 from Zalgiris Kaunas and quickly became a cornerstone of the team. He is widely regarded as one of the best defensive guards in the EuroLeague, winning the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024 and leading the league in steals during the 2022/23 season. During his five-year tenure, he has won multiple domestic titles and reached five consecutive EuroLeague Final Fours (2022–2026). In 2023, he obtained Greek citizenship and represented the Greek national team at the Paris Olympic Games.
